your fairytale can have flaws

A few months back, I was working with a bride who grew up in the area, but lived elsewhere the duration of the planning process. When we met for her rehearsal she was a bundle of nerves and was concerned about all of the details. This is normal. After all, you are planning the details of this day for months and it becomes the topic of every dinner conversation for a year, creeps into your dreams and takes over your Pinterest. 

"What time can the florist put the flowers on the tables"?
"Should guests grab their escort cards before or after the ceremony"?  
"If Aunt Betty smokes before cocktail hour...".

I assured her that the vendors she had hired would do an excellent job, and that we had it handled. Her job was to show up and enjoy the day. 

The next morning she was still on edge. As we lined up the bridal party for the processional, the  ring bearer, who was was five years old, started to throw a bit of a tantrum. I frequently offer Hershey Kisses (with parent approval) after the ceremony to ring bearers and flower girls who start to get a little nervous before they walk. 

This particular day, the conversation went like this...

Me: OK Adam*, go ahead bud". 
Adam did not budge one inch. Instead, he locked his arms at his sides as if he'd had years of military training and studied the rocks at his feet with the curiosity of a skilled geologist.  
Me: "Adam, I'll give you one Hershey Kiss if you walk, two if you walk and smile". 
Adam: "I'm going for one". 

Needless to say, the bride (standing right behind him) had a good laugh.

"I can't believe he (Groom) missed this, I can't wait to tell him about it".  Her groom was already in front of their guests waiting for his bride to walk down the aisle.  

 It was at that point that she realized things cannot always go exactly as planned. Little Adam clenched his fists and marched down the aisle (sans smile), but the bride was beaming. 

The moral of this story? 

Sure, the details are fun, but you do not want them to overshadow the true meaning of the day. Planning your wedding should be one of the most exciting times of your life, be sure to enjoy every minute of it. 


*Name has been changed